Macron and Prabowo Discuss Rafale Jets and Dairy Trade During State Visit
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – President Prabowo Subianto of the Republic of Indonesia made a state visit to the Élysée Palace in Paris, France, on Thursday, 28 May 2026. During a joint press statement, French President Emmanuel Macron praised Prabowo’s visit, which occurred exactly one year after Macron’s own state visit to Indonesia.
Macron reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to strengthening strategic ties into a broader and deeper global partnership amid geopolitical dynamics, describing Indonesia as a key strategic partner for France in the Indo-Pacific region. “Indonesia is a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific, and I believe this is also part of President Prabowo’s conviction,” Macron said, according to the Presidential Secretariat’s press release on 29 May 2026.
On defence and security, Macron highlighted the close cooperation between the two countries, marked by the arrival of the first Rafale fighter jets in Indonesia. He described this as tangible evidence of the evolving strategic relationship. “The first Rafale fighter jets arrived in Indonesia yesterday, a testament to the ongoing strategic relationship and today’s talks, and a clear sign of the mutual desire to advance further,” he added.
Macron also stressed the importance of enhancing economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Indonesia, France, and the European Union, expressing hope that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement would be swiftly implemented to accelerate trade and investment flows across strategic sectors. “This is crucial to be implemented promptly to remove barriers to trade and investment, and to expedite progress in transportation, healthcare, energy transition, and defence,” he said.
Macron commended Indonesia’s opening of its market to French dairy and beef cattle sectors and welcomed Danantara Indonesia’s investment plans as part of strengthening economic ties. In cultural and educational spheres, both leaders committed to deepening cooperation under the France-Indonesia Innovation Year 2026, building on a joint cultural strategy declaration at Borobudur Temple in May 2025. This collaboration includes museums, literature, film, fashion, and strengthened scientific, technological, and university partnerships. “France aims to welcome more students, researchers, and talents,” Macron said.
On international issues, Macron and Prabowo exchanged views on the Middle East, Ukraine conflict, South China Sea tensions, and Southeast Asia. Macron praised Indonesia’s active role in promoting peace and dialogue. “I wish to pay tribute to your bold stance for peace in the Middle East and recognition of Palestine. I also commend your military’s continued efforts to uphold Lebanon’s sovereignty and peace,” he said.
Regarding Southeast Asia, Macron affirmed ASEAN’s importance in France’s and the EU’s Indo-Pacific strategy, stating France is prepared to continue cooperating with Indonesia to address global and regional challenges. “At all levels of the Indonesia-France partnership, this is highly relevant and will strengthen our shared vision for peace in the current world order,” Macron said.